How are 25 million Americans overcoming flight anxiety following recent air incidents?

The walk through the jetway to board an aircraft speeds up the heartbeat. Strapping into the seat triggers leg-bobbing and sweat. This reality faces millions of Americans with aerophobia — fear of flying.

According to a recent study by Cleveland Clinic, more than 25 million U.S. adults suffer from flight anxiety, a number that increases following aviation incidents. The recent plane collision over the Potomac River that killed 67 passengers and a medevac jet crash in Philadelphia have renewed these fears for many travelers.

"It's scary to be up in the sky. We're humans, we're supposed to be on Earth with our feet on the ground," said Dr. Rebecca Skolnick, a clinical psychologist specializing in aerophobia and co-founder of MindWell NYC. She told the Thrillist, "but people come to me because they want to be able to fly — maybe it's to travel, or for work, or an important part of their relationship."

Flight anxiety stems from various triggers. Severe turbulence starts it for some. Others feel suffocated in tight cabin spaces. Many struggle with the lack of control inherent in air travel. The fear manifests differently for each person but impacts their ability to travel comfortably or at all.

Several practical approaches can help manage in-flight anxiety. The worst thing anxious flyers can do is arrive unprepared. Look up your airline's entertainment options in advance or bring downloaded media, books, or tactile activities like knitting projects. "Have stuff to do so you're not just sitting there waiting for something bad to happen," Skolnick advises.

Squeezing a stress ball, wearing scented lotion, or viewing comforting photos engages the senses. Progressive muscle relaxation — tensing muscle groups while breathing deeply, then releasing — works well in airplane seats. Free guided meditations for aerophobia are available through apps like Insight Timer.

The average American's chance of dying in a plane crash is about one in 11 million — compared to one in 5,000 for car accidents. Commercial airline passengers are approximately 39 times safer now than in the 1970s, according to MIT research. Every commercial pilot undergoes 1,500 hours of flight time plus regular medical exams.

For severe aerophobia, professional treatment works. MindWell NYC treats patients with virtual reality exposure therapy that simulates all aspects of air travel. Most patients need only six to ten sessions before taking an actual flight.

Online communities provide additional help. The subreddit r/Fearofflying hosts users who post their flight information, asking others to track their journeys and confirm safe landings.

Mental health professionals recommend focusing on your destination rather than the journey. "Ask yourself, 'What is likely to happen?' Think about the best- and worst-case scenarios, and how you will handle them. Remind yourself why you're on the plane," Dr. Skolnick says.

While aerophobia remains common, most sufferers can learn to travel by air comfortably with proper techniques and support.